'The traffic is a little bit criminal' - Why Tadej Pogačar may never target Milan-San Remo the same way ever again

Tadej Pogačar, following his third-place finish at Milan-San Remo, reportedly told his partner Urška Žigart that he would "stay away from those roads for a while," citing the "criminal" traffic conditions he encountered during his reconnaissance rides. This sentiment, captured by *CyclingNews*, suggests a significant shift in the Slovenian's approach to *La Classicissima*, indicating potential reluctance to invest the same intense preparation in future editions.

This declaration carries weight given Pogačar's aggressive pursuit of the Monument in recent years, including a fourth-place in 2022 and this year's podium. For a rider who seemingly targets every major race with laser-like focus, any hesitation to fully commit to a Monument's unique demands – especially its lengthy, often congested lead-up – could redefine his spring calendar. It highlights the often-overlooked logistical and safety challenges even top professionals face, potentially influencing future race strategies and even event organisation.

Pogačar's frustration, while perhaps a touch hyperbolic, underscores the stark reality of modern professional cycling: even the most dominant riders are not immune to the mundane, and sometimes dangerous, realities of public roads. His words might just save him some stress, but they certainly won't deter his rivals.